7 Weeknight Shrimp Dinners

Yes, we can hear your collective sigh out there -- a sigh of relief, a sigh of gratitude. The word "shrimp" in a main course promises a dinner that's fast, healthy and protein-packed: a savior on a weeknight, an elegant companion at a party and every role in between. Here are seven easy shrimp dinners, some dressed-up, some dressed-down, all sigh-worthy.

This may be the perfect weeknight gumbo. -- Amanda & Merrill
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Photo: Sarah Shatz

The shrimp emerge from the oven, unscathed by the heat -- cooked through quickly enough that they remain delicate and plump, with a juicy snap. -- Amanda
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Photo: Sarah Shatz

Eggy and crisp, these Kyoto-style pancakes are studded with plump morsels of tender shrimp and threaded through with ribbons of cabbage and rings of scallion. -- Amanda & Merrill
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Photo: Sarah Shatz

It's the sugar that makes this dish -- on the grill, the sugar caramelizes, giving the shrimp a laquered feel, and its sweetness balances the kick of the Sriracha. Buy some beer or Tequila. -- Amanda & Merrill
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Photo: Sarah Shatz

Thai food has never been so easy and quick! Bring the authentic taste of Thailand to your house with this simple and delicious Pad Thai! -- mtlabor
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Photo: Sarah Shatz

What I've discovered is that the sandwich is extra good if eaten while the shrimp are still warm. -- Amanda
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Photo: Sarah Shatz

Worcestershire sauce and paprika give the sauce an earthy quality, while the Cognac envelops the shrimp like a warm, sweet blanket. -- Amanda & Merrill
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Photo: Sarah Shatz